Scott Majeski's Blog

As of today, April 22, 2010, all contractors that work on pre-1978 homes and may disturb paint through their work MUST become a Certified Renovator and the firm they work for must become a Certified Firm through the EPA.

This rule affects painters, carpenters, plumbers, handymen, restoration companies, property management firms that do their own repairs.

The EPA is fining $32,500 per day per violation and they are serious about enforcement.  If a building takes out a permit for work you can bet your are on a list for enforcement personnel to stop by to make sure the RRP Standards are being followed.

To learn more visit:   www.PuroCleanChicago.blogspot.com

Fire or Homeowners Claims:
1. If there is damage to the building, make any necessary temporary repairs to the building to protect the property from further damage. Save ALL bills as they are a property part of the loss.
2.If there is damage to personal property, list all items that are damaged and, if possible, obtain an estimate for repairs.
3. If a theft occurs, call your local law enforcement agency immediately.
4. Do not sign ANY paper or statements unless requested to do so by a representative of your insurance company.
5. If anyone is injured, do not admit liability or fault. Discuss the accident only with a known representative of your insurance company.
6. Promptly notify your insurance agent.

Regardless of the type of policy tenants/owners/assocations have, call your insurance agent after a loss. Your agent will help you make appropriate decisions and can direct you to reputable remediation experts.

Make sure your remediation vendors have  gone through the certification process before you agree to use them on your properities.

In April 2008 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed a rule that will significantly impact the remediation, renovation and remodeling industry. The Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) changes how contractors can work on certain buildings constructed before 1978.

Effective April 2010, work done on a house or child occupied facility built before 1978 rule may apply regardless of who owns the facility or who is paying for the work.

The RRP requires two separate certifications and specific training.

Certified Firm: The actual company that performs the work must be a Certified Firm. This is a relatively simple administrative process.

Certified Renovator: The Certified Renovator is a named individual who works for a Certified Firm. A Certified Renovator must be assigned to each project and must be present on the job site for certain specific phases of the job. A Certified Renovator may not delegate these specific responsibilities to a non-certified person. The Certified Renovator is also responsible for training all non-certified workers who will be doing actual work on the project. However, non-certified workers may not perform the specific duties required of the Certified Renovator.

EPA's RRP website (www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm ) has more information on the rule. The site also has a handbook to help contractors understand the RRP. Called the Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right, this document guides you through the RRP without having to read the actual regulation.